fathers.

I've been looking back at my post from one year ago - last Father's Day - and I remember how blessed I felt, posting those pictures and writing those words. Some people go through life never uttering the word "father" with affection. 

It is a broken world we live in, and even the strongest of families serve as proof.

Maybe later I will share about our weekend, how our home was filled with family - my mother, my father, my brother, my sister-in-law, my niece and nephew, my husband, my children. How we all love each other and we all say so, which in itself is a blessing beyond measure.

Maybe another time I will have energy left to share how this holiday means more to me each year as I come to understand what a rare and humbling gift is a husband full of grace, and how I am in awe of mine. How I see his own father in him, and that makes me feel proud and safe.

There is much to say, many photos to share. It was a good, good weekend.

But tonight, there is one image that stands out from the lot. It stands in front of the fear and grief that filled many of the days between this Father's day and last. It covers over the pain and confusion and soaks up the puddle of tears. 

In my world tonight, this photo flies like a banner above our family, declaring in bold letters "GOD IS GRACIOUS!" And then murmuring something less ladylike to Death and all his friends.

That is my father, and that is one of the happiest photos I will ever see.

It was a good, GOOD weekend.

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Happy Father's Day, Papaw, Poppop & Papa. We love you!